Baldivis Children’s Forest Excursion

Makybe Rise students from Pre-Primary to Year Six, participated in an excursion to the Baldivis Children’s Forest on Wednesday 16th October. This was to celebrate and participate in Indigenous cultural activities.

Indigenous students and their guest eagerly participated in the Cultural Bush Walk and Collective Artwork with the Aboriginal guide and Artist, Lea Taylor. On the walk around the forest with the Aboriginal guide, students explored the importance of land to traditional Aboriginal culture. They foraged in the bush for animals and insects while learning about the changing seasons, the importance of the land and spiritual acknowledgement for Nyoongar people. The Aboriginal facilitator and students followed Lea Taylor around the forest talking about the native flora and fauna and its importance to the Aboriginal culture. As part of the walk, the students were encouraged to pick up ‘natural treasures’ from the ground that they used in the art session.

During the art session, Aboriginal Artist Lea Taylor introduced students to the art of storytelling through Aboriginal art symbols. After explaining the techniques and hearing the stories behind them, students were given an opportunity to create their own storytelling artworks to take home. A collective piece of artwork was also made which now takes pride of place in our School Library.

The final part of the excursion enabled students the opportunity to explore the Forest. During this time, students enjoyed the adventure of climbing trees, birdwatch, and just having fun in nature!

Overall, the day was a resounding success, with students’ conversation buzzing about their exciting experience!